Preparing the Way!

Yes, this day two weeks will be Christmas Eve! As much as I absolutely love Christmas and all its celebrations, it's not Christmas yet! We are still in Advent- a beautiful time of prayer, preparation, stillness, reflection to ask ourselves how am I preparing for the birth of Jesus? How will it change my life in this year 2022/2023? 

Here are some suggestions to prepare for Christmas in these next 2 weeks: 

1) Light a candle, take even just five minutes to be still- no phone, no gadgets and remember how much you are blessed and loved in many ways. 

2) Check out God's word each day: the readings are powerful and remind us we are all on a journey towards Bethlehem and beyond. There are lots of apps online or you can visit this page: https://www.catholicbishops.ie/readings/

2) Make the decision and take the opportunity to go to Confession- so you can be truly at peace with yourself, your neighbour and with God. Most Parishes have their Christmas/Advent schedules on their website or social media so check them out.

3) Look at your local Church/community and see the different Christmas projects which are assisting people who are in need and if you are in a position to be able, donate something. St. Vincent de Paul will be preparing food hampers, clothes, fuel vouchers etc for many families so check them out to see if you can help or if you need a helping hand yourself to help. 

4) Is there someone you are aware of who is alone, bereaved or struggling that you can reach out to? Never underestimate the power of little gestures which can be huge gestures to the one who is receiving them.

5) Attend a Church service/Nativity Play/Christmas carol service- keep Jesus in Christmas. It's His Birthday we're celebrating after all.

6) If you like Christmas music, why not try some Advent music also? Spotify, youtube and other streaming services have some great playlists.

7) This Sunday is Gaudete Sunday, Rejoicing Sunday, and in some places is known as Bambinelli Sunday (Little Babies Sunday) why not bring the Baby Jesus from your crib with you to Mass or Church and ask your priest/pastor to bless it so it can be placed in your crib on Christmas Eve? 

8) If you don't have a crib or a Christmas prayer space, why not prepare one this year, it can be simple but a good reminder about the reason for the season! 

9) Lastly, be kind and patient- with yourself and with others! It's a busy time for many people especially in the retail sector and especially  in Church circles. Treat those who serve us with respect and dignity. Be attentive to people who may find Christmas hard for a variety of reasons and try and support them in whatever way. 

Together we go towards Bethlehem to celebrate the birth of Jesus our Saviour, let's not leave anyone behind. 

Blessed Advent travelling to you all!